In years gone by, before the automobile was the primary mode of travel, hotels were built in close proximity to railroad stations to facilitate the traveling public. Such was the case in Gordonsville, VA. The structure to the left of C&O B30-7 No. 8243 was built in 1873 as the Magnolia House, a fine hotel. All one had to do was walk from the station platform, down the sidewalk, and in the front door. It had been converted to a private residence long before this image was taken in 1984.
